CHAPTER 3 — The Real Thief Steps Forward
"Search everyone."
Adrian's voice wasn't loud.
Yet every person obeyed immediately.
Victoria blinked.
"What?"
"The gala doesn't end until every guest is searched."
Her smile disappeared.
"Adrian, that's absurd."
"So is accusing an innocent woman without proof."
Security began checking handbags, jackets, and evening purses.
Guests protested.
Nobody left.
Then one guard froze.
"Sir..."
He opened an expensive silver clutch lying beside Victoria's chair.
Inside...
rested the missing diamond necklace.
Perfectly wrapped inside a silk handkerchief.
The ballroom exploded with whispers.
Victoria's face turned white.
"Someone planted that!"
She reached for Adrian.
"You know I'd never—"
"Enough."
His voice was ice.
The security footage arrived moments later.
Displayed across the giant LED screen used for charity presentations.
Everyone watched.
Victoria waited until the maid passed carrying dessert trays.
She quietly slipped the necklace into the maid's apron pocket.
Then, seconds later...
she loudly announced the jewelry had been stolen.
No one spoke.
Adrian never looked away from the screen.
"I trusted you."
Victoria's lips shook.
"I did it because she kept staring at you!"
"I thought she was trying to ruin us!"
Adrian finally turned.
"You ruined yourself."
Security escorted Victoria from the ballroom while hundreds of guests watched in stunned silence.
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The maid remained standing exactly where she had been.
Still holding nothing but the old photograph.
